Allonormativity

Allonormativity, also called “compulsory sexuality,” refers to the social assumption that all people experience sexual attraction, are sexually active, or generally want to have sex. Sexuality is treated as self-evident, adult, healthy, or as a necessary part of relationships and life.

This norm can devalue or make asexual people invisible. It appears, for example, in the expectation that everyone will eventually have sex, that sexual attraction is “normal” and its absence needs explanation, or that relationships without sex are less complete. Aromantic people may also be affected, especially when sexual and romantic expectations are conflated.

Allonormativity is often connected to heteronormativity and amatonormativity, but it is a distinct concept. Discrimination, devaluation, or exclusion directed at asexual and aromantic people is often referred to as acephobia or a-spec hostility. Respectful interaction recognizes that sexual attraction, sexual interest, and sexual activity can vary, and that no person is obliged to want sex or justify not wanting it.